…Recorded live at Chicago’s legendary Green Mill, Open or Close gathers compositions from all four members — saxophonist Geof Bradfield, clarinetist Ben Goldberg, pianist Myra Melford, and drummer Dana Hall — who, having crossed musical paths before in several contexts, make a remarkable debut as a group here.
Ornette Coleman’s “Open or Close” is the stunning opener, showcasing a memorable eight-note riff that gradually evolves into staccato activity resembling rhythmic shocks of vibrant color. Initially, Melford constructs melodies around that riff, with Hall’s percussive driving force as her sole support. Goldberg’s sinewy clarinet phrasing also prompts quick responses from the drummer and effective comping from…

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